A Fresh Look at Psilocybin Safety
In today’s edition of Weekly Mind Watering, we’re diving back into the realm of psilocybin research.
Recent studies from Imperial College aimed to separate fact from fiction through an exhaustive analysis.
They hoped to offer a fresh perspective on psilocybin’s safety profile, replacing outdated stigmas with cutting-edge scientific analysis.
So if you’ve ever wondered just how safe psilocybin REALLY is…
This is the Weekly Mind Watering for you!
The Study: Fast Facts
Imperial College London’s review debunks key myths about psilocybin, reinforcing its potential for safe therapeutic use.
Researchers found:
- Low risk of addiction
- Zero toxicity in the body
- And major benefits for the brain
Let’s take a closer look…
Myths Debunked: Psilocybin & The Body
Psilocybin leads to toxicity and overdose.
Psilocybin exhibits low toxicity and minimal risk of overdose, especially when used in controlled settings.
Psilocybin’s LD50 is 280 mg/kg of bodyweight.
The average psilocybin mushroom contains 8-12 mg of psilocybin….
Which means an individual weighing 90 kgs would have to eat roughly 2,000 grams of P. Cubensis to be at risk for toxicity or overdose.
Psilocybin use leads to long-term brain damage.
Despite rumors of neurotoxicity…
(or “frying your brain”, as your parents probably put it)
…psilocybin was found to be non-toxic to the human body.
Better yet, a number of studies have found psilocybin:
- Balances brain activity,
- Promotes neuroplasticity,
- And improves cognitive function.
Myths Debunked: Psilocybin & The Brain
Psilocybin use inevitably leads to addiction and dependency.
Contrary to stereotypes, psilocybin shows an extremely low potential for abuse and dependency—
Significantly lower than alcohol, tobacco, or even caffeine.
In fact, psilocybin has proven to be an extremely effective addiction treatment.
Research dating back to the 1950s has shown psilocybin (and LSD) can make an immediate and lasting impact on:
- Smoking
- Opioid abuse,
- And alcoholism.
Experiencing psilocybin will permanently alter your mental state for the worse.
While psilocybin can induce powerful experiences –
There’s substantial evidence that, with proper support and setting, it leads to profoundly positive changes in mental health – not breakdowns.
Individuals with:
- Major-depressive disorder
- Combat-related PTSD
- End-of-life anxiety...
…and similar conditions have reported significant and long-lasting benefits from psilocybin use in controlled studies.
Like all substances, there are increased risks associated with certain medications and mental illnesses. Always consult with your physician before trying a new substance – safety first!
Final Thoughts
As we reassess psilocybin through a scientific lens, we stand on the brink of a new era in mental health treatment.
This evolution from taboo to treatment underscores the importance of science in overcoming stigma and unlocking potential.
On that note, we’ll end today’s edition as the researchers ended their study –
With a call for balanced reporting, public education, and a re-examination of psilocybin’s place in society.
Ready to Learn More?
Watch This 3-Minute Video:
"Your Brain on Shrooms"
by ASAPScience
